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Confusing words explained

“sign up” vs “signup” — What’s the Difference?

'signup' (one word) is a noun; 'sign up' is the verb

Key takeaway

Quick Difference: sign up vs signup

'signup' (one word) is a noun; 'sign up' is the verb

sign up /saɪn ʌp/ signup /ˈsaɪnʌp/

sign up vs signup Side-by-Side Comparison

Meaning of sign up

Verb A2 Neutral
Meaning

To register or enrol for a service, course, event, or activity by entering your details.

Short definition

To officially join or register for something, like a website, class, or newsletter.

Rule of thumb

Use 'sign up' (two words) as a verb. Reserve 'signup' (one word) for nouns.

Examples
  • Sign up here to join the class. A1 daily
  • You need to sign up for a free account to access all features. A2 daily

Meaning of signup

Noun B1 Neutral
Meaning

Registration or enrollment process.

Short definition

When you fill out a form to join something online or offline.

Rule of thumb

Use 'signup' (noun) for the registration form; 'sign up' (verb) for the action.

Examples
  • The signup was quick and easy. A2 daily
  • I received a confirmation email after the signup. B1 daily

Usage Notes & Nuance

sign up: In digital contexts, 'sign up' refers to creating an account. The noun 'signup' (one word) describes the registration process or page.

signup: Common in digital contexts; emphasizes registration ease and accessibility.

How to Remember the Difference

Sign up (two words) is what you do; signup (one word) is what it is.

Common Mistakes with sign up and signup

Mistake with sign up

Correct: You must sign up before the deadline.

Mistake with sign up

Correct: Sign up to create a new account.

Mistake with signup

Correct: I need to fill out the signup form.

Mistake with signup

Correct: The signup was completed.

Practice Quiz: sign up or signup?

Choose the word that best completes each real example sentence.

Question 1

_____ here to join the class.

Question 2

You need to _____ for a free account to access all features.

Question 3

The _____ was quick and easy.

Pick at least one answer, then press Check answers to see how you did.

Frequently Asked Questions About sign up vs signup

What’s the difference between “sign up” and “signup”?

'signup' (one word) is a noun; 'sign up' is the verb

When should I use “sign up”?

Use 'sign up' (two words) as a verb. Reserve 'signup' (one word) for nouns.

When should I use “signup”?

Use 'signup' (noun) for the registration form; 'sign up' (verb) for the action.

How can I remember sign up vs signup?

Sign up (two words) is what you do; signup (one word) is what it is.

Is it “sign up” or “signup” in example sentences?

Use the quiz above to test the pair with real example sentences from the available word data.

Explore sign up and signup Individually